WHEN: Tuesday, November 10, 2026, from 5:00–9:00 p.m.
WHERE: The Waterfall Banquet and Conference Center, 3416 Philadelphia Pike, Claymont, DE 19703
WHAT: This superhero-themed event entitled “Crowns, Capes & Courage” celebrates the everyday heroes who inspire young girls to lead with confidence, kindness, and courage. The event brings together law enforcement officers and girls from our communities for an evening focused on mentorship, empowerment, and positive relationships.
On Saturday, November 7, 2026, at approximately 6:20 p.m., officers from the New Castle County Division of Police responded to an address in the 1000 block of Wagoner Drive in the Woodland Heights community, where an arrest was made in connection with an investigation into Unlawful Sexual Contact.
As the investigation continues, detectives are reviewing the details and believe there is a possibility of additional victims.
The suspect has been identified as 36-year-old Michael McCarthy of Wilmington, Delaware.
Anyone who believes they may have been a victim or has information related to this investigation is asked to contact Detective Sergeant Kevin Mackie of the Criminal Investigations Unit at (302) 395-8252 or via email at Kevin.Mackie@newcastlede.gov. You can also submit tips by calling the New Castle County Division of Police non-emergency number at (302) 573-2800.
Michael McCarthy – 36
On Saturday, November 7, 2026, at approximately 6:20 p.m., officers from the New Castle County Division of Police responded to an address in the 1000 block of Wagoner Drive in the Woodland Heights community for a report of a disorderly group.
Upon arrival, officers determined that the incident originated at the victim’s residence, where a gathering had taken place. During the gathering, a 36-year-old male acquaintance arrived and engaged in a conversation with a female victim under the age of 12.
During the conversation, the male suspect made an inappropriate, sexually suggestive comment to the juvenile victim, which was followed by him inappropriately touching her over her clothing. The victim became alarmed by the male’s actions and immediately reported the incident to a family member.
After learning of the incident, the male left the gathering and returned to his residence. The victim’s family and others subsequently went to the male suspect’s residence, resulting in a 911 call reporting a disorderly group.
During the investigation, officers determined that the male was also in violation of a court order stemming from an unrelated incident in July 2026. Officers took the suspect into custody without incident and transported him to New Castle County Police Headquarters, where he was charged with the following offenses:
• One felony count of Unlawful Sexual Contact in the Second Degree
• One misdemeanor count of Breach of Release.
The 36-year-old male was arraigned at Justice of the Peace Court 3 and released on $2,100 unsecured bail.
Due to legal limitations established under House Bill 59, we are unable to release the name or photograph of the suspect(s).
